Inside the Magichttp://www.insidethemagic.net
Covering themed entertainment, from Disney and beyond!Tue, 31 Mar 2015 19:43:20 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.4.2VIDEO: The Simpsons Springfield expansion opens at Universal Studios Hollywood with new interactive elementshttp://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/the-simpsons-springfield-expansion-opens-at-universal-studios-hollywood-with-new-interactive-elements/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/the-simpsons-springfield-expansion-opens-at-universal-studios-hollywood-with-new-interactive-elements/#commentsTue, 31 Mar 2015 16:33:14 +0000Corinne Anderssonhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=videos&p=57608The newly completed Springfield expansion based on the popular TV show ‘The Simpsons is currently in soft opening at Universal Studios Hollywood. Right now you can take a leisurely stroll throughout the highly themed area but most restaurants and the new The Simpson Ride has yet to open. Later this Spring though you will be able to Crash through Krustyland on The Simpsons Ride, imbibe at Moe’s Tavern and grab a Homer-sized helping of donuts at Lard Lad at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Take a walking tour of the newly completed Springfield expansion of Universal Studios Hollywood based on The Simpsons including the interactive Springfield Nuclear Power Plant.

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/the-simpsons-springfield-expansion-opens-at-universal-studios-hollywood-with-new-interactive-elements/feed/0Tour Guide Tuesday: Walt Disney World testing fourth FastPass+ option as new queue system continues to growhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/tour-guide-tuesday-walt-disney-world-testing-fourth-fastpass-option-as-new-queue-system-continues-to-grow/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/tour-guide-tuesday-walt-disney-world-testing-fourth-fastpass-option-as-new-queue-system-continues-to-grow/#commentsTue, 31 Mar 2015 14:59:16 +0000Dave Drumhellerhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?p=57573It has been more than a year since the new FastPass+ system debuted at Walt Disney World. This huge leap in technology has its plusses and minuses, and is still a work in progress. There are guests who like the ability to make FastPass reservations months in advance, yet there are others who would prefer not to make those planning decisions so far ahead of their vacations. Also, many people like the convenience of utilizing their computer or smart phone to obtain FastPasses, while others are not fans of the technology. Although there are differing opinions on the subject, there is one desire that seems to be universally agreed upon. Guests would like the ability to reserve more than three FastPasses, especially at the Magic Kingdom.

Busy FastPass+ Kiosk Queue

Disney took the first step in this direction last year, only a few months after the new system was put into use. Guests were allowed to book a fourth FastPass after using up their first three. They could then book a fifth after using their fourth, and so on. This process is still in play, but there are several obstacles that make it difficult for many guests to utilize. First off, it requires that the first three FastPasses be booked early in the day, or there won’t be enough time to enjoy any additional ones. For example, if you book one for the special fireworks viewing area at the Magic Kingdom, you basically give up the ability to get any additional FastPasses. Finally, guests are required to book all additional FastPasses at an in-park kiosk, which can have very long lines during busier times of year.

Because of the limitations, it seems that many guests aren’t taking advantage of adding the extra FastPasses. It looks like Disney has taken notice and is making some changes. Over the past few days, guests have had the ability to reserve four FastPasses at the Magic Kingdom or Hollywood Studios. I was pleasantly surprised to see this pop up on the the kiosks at both parks. In the case of the Magic Kingdom, I was also able to reserve four FastPasses on the My Disney Experience website and app. I have spoken to several cast members about this change, and they have all said that it is just a test. However, it certainly looks like Disney will be moving in this direction in the near future.

Bonus FastPasses and Changes

At the Magic Kingdom, it seems like the fourth FastPass was always for Mickey’s Philharmagic and appears to be a “bonus.” This is similar to the old paper system, where Philharmagic would be given in conjunction with Peter Pan’s Flight or Winnie the Pooh. However, the FastPass+ system allowed me to change the bonus to any attraction that was available.

Magic Kingdom FastPass Kiosk

Although I never saw a fourth Hollywood Studios FastPass pop up on the website or app, I was excited to see how it played out on the in-park kiosk. It started out like Magic Kingdom, where I was awarded a bonus. Then, it actually allowed me to pick an additional “tier 1″ FastPass. Now, since it was a busy day, Toy Story Mania and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster were already gone, but it was interesting to see the ability to get multiple tier one FastPasses. The cast member thought that this was probably a glitch.

Hollywood Studios Kiosk

It is important to note that as of today, I am only able to reserve four FastPasses until April 1st (tomorrow). However, I wouldn’t be surprised if they extended the testing period. Also, on the app and website, it didn’t always give me the bonus FastPass. It seemed like it popped up every other time I checked. It is anybody’s guess whether or not the fourth FastPass becomes the norm in the immediate future. However, it looks like Disney is listening to concerns and is once again evolving the system in an attempt to provide a better guest experience.

I hope you enjoy “Tour Guide Tuesday.” If you want additional tips while you’re in the parks, WDW Guided Tours is happy to help!

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/tour-guide-tuesday-walt-disney-world-testing-fourth-fastpass-option-as-new-queue-system-continues-to-grow/feed/5Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto brings unique Tiki experience to Polynesian Village Resort, Walt Disney Worldhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/trader-sams-grog-grotto-brings-unique-tiki-experience-to-polynesian-village-resort-walt-disney-world/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/trader-sams-grog-grotto-brings-unique-tiki-experience-to-polynesian-village-resort-walt-disney-world/#commentsMon, 30 Mar 2015 19:56:49 +0000Daniel Anderssonhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?p=57520The highly anticipated Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto soft-opened to a large crowd of enthusiastic fans this weekend at the Polynesian Village Resort, Walt Disney World. The intimate bar, modeled after its Disneyland, California counterpart, is a part of the major transformation that the Polynesian Village Resort is undergoing that also includes a new lobby and Disney Vacation Club expansion.

The bar has a huge fan base because of its largely Tiki themed atmosphere and unique drink selection. Not only do you have Tiki statues everywhere, but the bar also have an interactive element with effects happening all around you. Even ordering a drink is a special event at Trader Sam’s with special mugs and bartenders making it a true experience. Trader Sam’s also serves some light appetizer, but I would recommend you go for the drink instead of them as they were nothing special.

For its soft opening Trader Sam’s saw a line up to 5 hours just to get a foot in the door and with its small space, 51 people inside and 80 people on the patio, which is no surprise. You can unfortunately not make reservations so there is little to do but try and make it to opening, which is 4pm. After that you will be able to either enjoy the Tiki effects inside or watch fireworks from the outside patio until midnight. Imagineer Brandon Kleyla, head decorator of Trader Sam’s, said his favorite part about the bar is that fireworks view over the Seven Seas Lagoon that you get from the patio.

Uh-Oa The Tiki God

Uh-Oa The Tiki God after guests angered him.

Without you knowing it, your chair may get lowered.

Trader Sam’s outside patio with the view of the Seven Seas Lagoon and fireworks viewing,

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/trader-sams-grog-grotto-brings-unique-tiki-experience-to-polynesian-village-resort-walt-disney-world/feed/5VIDEO: Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver introduced for Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron”http://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/video-scarlet-witch-and-quicksilver-introduced-for-marvels-avengers-age-of-ultron/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/video-scarlet-witch-and-quicksilver-introduced-for-marvels-avengers-age-of-ultron/#commentsMon, 30 Mar 2015 16:25:27 +0000Ricky Brigantehttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=videos&p=57517Elizabeth Olsen and Aaron Taylor-Johnson introduce their characters Quicksilver and the Scarlet Witch in a new featurette for Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron”:

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/video-scarlet-witch-and-quicksilver-introduced-for-marvels-avengers-age-of-ultron/feed/0D23 announces upcoming events for Disney fans at Walt Disney Worldhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/d23-announces-upcoming-events-for-disney-fans-at-walt-disney-world/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/d23-announces-upcoming-events-for-disney-fans-at-walt-disney-world/#commentsSat, 28 Mar 2015 15:20:26 +0000Corinne Anderssonhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=headlines&p=57377D23: The Official Disney Fan Club brings more magic to the Walt Disney World Resort area with the announcement of even more exclusive experiences for their fans for rest of 2015. D23 members will be able to enjoy special screenings, shopping events and the fan-favorite event “Sip and Stroll” throughout the year.

Waking up with Sleeping Beauty

D23 Gold and Silver Members will be able to enjoy this animated classic on the big screen. Special guest, animator and Walt Disney World Creative Designer Lon Smart, will explore the film’s numerous landmark achievements. All members will also receive a special journal designed to look like the ornate storybook at the beginning of the film.

Mickey’s of Glendale Orlando shopping events

The Walt Disney Imagineering store is opening up a pop-up shop for D23 Gold and Silver Members. On Saturday, June 6, guests will be able to peruse and purchase signature items from the store’s unique collection.

And on Saturday, November 14, members will be able to pick up some key holiday gift items for the Disney fans in their lives—and for themselves.

Let’s get together with the ‘Parent trap’

Celebrate this beloved film—starring Hayley Mills in dual roles—with D23 as we present the 1961 hit on the big screen Saturday, June 6. D23’s Steven Vagnini will present a look at the making of the movie with rarely seen photographs and imagery. All attendees will receive a special gift. Plus, guests who attend the screening will receive priority admission on that day to D23’s shopping event with Mickey’s of Glendale.

Sip and Stroll

D23 brings a new twist to a fan favorite, as members gather in celebration of the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival . Attendees will enjoy a continental breakfast, guest speakers, and an insider look at this annual event, now in its 20th year, before sipping and strolling around World Showcase—with some delectable surprises.

Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($74.99) and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com and at DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube.

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/d23-announces-upcoming-events-for-disney-fans-at-walt-disney-world/feed/0Date Nite at Disneyland: Geeks Take Tomorrowlandhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/date-nite-at-disneyland-geeks-take-tomorrowland/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/date-nite-at-disneyland-geeks-take-tomorrowland/#commentsFri, 27 Mar 2015 21:59:42 +0000Autumn Hildenhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?p=57182Get ready for a theme within a theme, because we are so incepting this week’s date night. It’s Date Nite at Disneyland: Geek Edition, where worlds collide as you and your special someone celebrate your allegiance to Disney and your devotion to whatever other fandom you’re a part of, all in one mind-blowing night.

Before you get started, know you’re not alone in your desire to tie your interests together in a perfectly nerdy knot of love. Potterheads, Whovians, goths, and dapper dressers all have their days in the sun at Disneyland. Think of this date night as a way to tide yourselves over until the next big event of your choosing.

Pretty, pretty neon.

Bow Ties Are Cool

As you know, a proper fan gets his or her geek on literally. Since you can’t go full cosplay in the parks, we partnered with Sarah Sterling of imSarahSnitch and Leslie Kay of Disneybound for creative “bounding” ideas that should scratch your costume itch in the Disney-approved way, whether that itch be of the superhero, ‘80s movie classics, or planetary variety.

For something simple, bound as a character who’d feel at-home in Tomorrowland.

If you want to take your geeky date-night fashion to the next level, try dressing as an attraction or even as Tomorrowland itself.

And of course, since it’s date night, coordinating with your one-and-only is always a stellar choice.

Star Date

Now that you’re properly attired, jet over to Tomorrowland, the hub of your Disney Geek date night. Go ahead and fly straight past Astro Orbiter, because why stay put in SoCal when you can journey to a galaxy far, far away? These days, the line for Star Tours is out of control, so play the following game while waiting to board your Star Speeder. Start by naming a prolific actor, then take turns providing the title of a film that person is in. If you get stuck, name another actor from the last film mentioned and branch off from there with a new set of titles. The winner is the last person to name either a film title or a related actor. Repeat as needed, depending on line length. You’ll be bound for Endor in no time.

C-3PO, coming in for a date-night hug.

Welcome to the Game Grid

There are as many different kinds of nerddom as there are planets to explore, and we are not forgetting about the gamers on this date night. We’re here for you in the absence of the recently-departed Starcade (*sniff). Get your fix defeating the Evil Emperor Zurg at Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, and if the loss of gaming opportunities is just too much for you, head into The Star Trader and let the essence of the Starcade comfort and wash over you. Or just indulge in some retail therapy. We are liking the newish Darth Vader-visits-Disneyland tees.

Anybody know what’s on the second floor of this place? Where does that mysterious, non-functioning escalator rise to?

Ob…viously

It’s a well-known fact that traveling through space and mourning the loss of free Wreck-it Ralph makes daters super hungry. You lovers need a slice of pie at Pizza Port (bonus, PP also serves Coke Zero – as in zero-gravity). Take your Lunar Cheese outside to the back porch to eat. If you kind of squint and concentrate really hard, this patio, with its painted cement planters and many terraces, feels like the shaded corners of Walt Disney World’s glorious Epcot. And at night it’s quiet.

The entire internet does not have a nighttime view out the back of Pizza Port, so you’re just going to have to go and see it for yourselves.

A Star Shines on the Hour of Our Meeting

Now it’s time to meet and greet. Your arrival in Tomorrowland has caused a stir, and we heard there are a couple of VIPs with vacation homes in Innoventions who want to say hi to you and your honey. Yes, Thor and Captain America. If you’re thinking ahead, you could even bound as characters from their universe so your photos are a geeksplosion of mashup coolness. If you’re not into supers, check out the ASIMO robot demo or interact with the Project Tomorrow video builder, another nod to Epcot. But light speed ahead on these attractions, as they’re jumping to coordinates unknown in the very near future.

I bow to your date-night skills. You must teach me about romance, for I lack chemistry with my love interest.

I Love You. I Know.

For an epic end to your date night, take the monorail out of the park. If you’re lucky, you can nab a cab all to yourselves and pretend the sleek, silent zoom of travel is like this or this. Relax in the low lighting as you glide toward your future together.

Autopilot is hot, even if it’s just pretend.

Photo Credits: Space Mountain by Kevin Crone, Innoventions and Monorail by Matthew Hansen, both of toursdepartingdaily.com.

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/disney-announces-date-for-trader-sams-grog-grotto-at-disneys-polynesian-village-resort/feed/1PHOTOS: First look at Amphicars coming to the Boathouse Restaurant opening this Spring at Disney Springshttp://www.insidethemagic.net/photos/photos-first-look-at-amphicars-coming-to-the-boathouse-restaurant-opening-this-spring-at-disney-springs/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/photos/photos-first-look-at-amphicars-coming-to-the-boathouse-restaurant-opening-this-spring-at-disney-springs/#commentsFri, 27 Mar 2015 19:10:53 +0000Corinne Anderssonhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=headlines&p=57461The soon to be opened “The Boathouse” restaurant in the Landing section of the new Disney Springs has some unique features coming to the lake of Downtown Disney. Amphicars, a mix between a car and a boat, will launch from land and take guests on 20-minute tours of the landmarks of Disney Springs. Over the weekend these classic amphicars showed up at the restaurant and you can now take a look at them thru a porthole in the construction wall.

The Boathouse will serve a gourmet menu daily until 2 a.m. featuring steaks, chops, fresh seafood and a raw bar. Opening is planned for Spring 2015

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/frozen-ears-hat-more-merchandise-from-mouse-a-holics-big-fat-panda/feed/0LEGO® Friends Revealed as the Final Room Theme at LEGOLAND® Hotel at LEGOLAND® Florida Resorthttp://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/lego-friends-revealed-as-the-final-room-theme-at-legoland-hotel-at-legoland-florida-resort/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/lego-friends-revealed-as-the-final-room-theme-at-legoland-hotel-at-legoland-florida-resort/#commentsThu, 26 Mar 2015 20:20:26 +0000Daniel Anderssonhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=headlines&p=57379LEGOLAND announced at a New York City event that the final theme of rooms and suites at the new LEGOLAND Hotel will be a “LEGO Friends” themed.
Guests at the event experienced the fourth theme first-hand by stepping into a life-size replica of the children’s sleeping area of the room. The highly detailed room model included a bunk bed with a trundle bed, TV, LEGO Models, and a treasure chest.

The popular LEGO Friends toy line is also the inspiration for “Heartlake City”, a new land coming to both LEGOLAND Florida Resort and LEGOLAND® California Resort this summer. The new land in Florida includes a new ride themed to Mia’s love of horses: Mia’s Riding Adventure, plus a new interactive show called “Friends to the Rescue” as well as Stephanie’s News Room and shops inside Heartlake Mall.

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/lego-friends-revealed-as-the-final-room-theme-at-legoland-hotel-at-legoland-florida-resort/feed/0Mr and Mrs Easter Bunny returns for meet and greets at the Magic Kingdomhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/mr-and-mrs-easter-bunny-returns-for-meet-and-greets-at-the-magic-kingdom/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/mr-and-mrs-easter-bunny-returns-for-meet-and-greets-at-the-magic-kingdom/#commentsThu, 26 Mar 2015 19:27:09 +0000Corinne Anderssonhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=headlines&p=57327Celebrate some Easter fun with Mr and Mrs Easter Bunny at the Magic Kingdom. The bunny couple will be out meeting daily at the Town Square Courtyard from 9am to 5pm now until April 5th.

Mr and Mrs Easter Bunny doesn’t sign autographs but you will be handed a lovely Easter egg autograph card with their signatures instead.

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/2015/03/mr-and-mrs-easter-bunny-returns-for-meet-and-greets-at-the-magic-kingdom/feed/0Special preview of new Disney movie “Tomorrowland” coming to Walt Disney World and Disneylandhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/special-preview-of-new-disney-movie-tomorrowland-coming-to-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/special-preview-of-new-disney-movie-tomorrowland-coming-to-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland/#commentsThu, 26 Mar 2015 15:25:04 +0000Daniel Anderssonhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=headlines&p=57366The new exciting mystery and adventure movie “Tomorrowland” doesn’t come out in theaters until May 22, but starting already in mid-April you will be able to catch an exclusive sneak peek of scenes from the movie at Epcot at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Park.

At Epcot the limited time event will be held at the Imagination Pavilion theater and include special in theater-effects. The Imagination Pavilion theater is currently the home of the Captain EO 3D movie experience.

At Disneyland Park the preview will be held at the Tomorrowland theater and as an added bonus will also have an exhibit featuring props and production artwork from the movie.

Synopsis: Directed by Oscar® winner Brad Bird and starring Academy Award® winner George Clooney, “Tomorrowland” tells the story of a jaded scientist and an optimistic teen who embark on a danger-filled mission to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space. “Tomorrowland” features a screenplay by “Lost” writer and co-creator Damon Lindelof and Brad Bird, from a story by Lindelof & Bird & Jeff Jensen.

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/special-preview-of-new-disney-movie-tomorrowland-coming-to-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland/feed/17 “Cinderella” inspired things to do during your next Walt Disney World stayhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/7-cinderella-inspired-things-to-do-during-your-next-walt-disney-world-stay/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/7-cinderella-inspired-things-to-do-during-your-next-walt-disney-world-stay/#commentsThu, 26 Mar 2015 15:00:37 +0000Daniel Anderssonhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=headlines&p=57111Did you fall in love with the new Cinderella movie? Here are 7 Cinderella inspired things you can do during your upcoming Walt Disney World vacation.

1. Take photo in front of the Golden Carriage from Disney’s live-action film “Cinderella”

Walk up to the blue carpet in front of The Streets of America movie façade at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a once in a lifetime photo with the real golden carriage used in the production of Walt Disney Studios “Cinderella”. The carriage will be on display through April 11. Read more…

2. Meet Cinderella at Princess Fairytale Hall
The royalty welcomes you to the Princess Fairytale Hall where you can meet Cinderella and other princesses. Here you can take photos with the princesses, get autographs and talk to the Disney princesses. As you walk along its corridors decorated with portraits of the princesses, and you may even catch a glimpse of Cinderella’s infamous glass slipper. Read more…

3. Dine like Royalty at Cinderella’s Royal TableMeet Cinderella in her royal castle at Cinderella’s Royal Table in this one-of-a kind dining experience, where you can have breakfast, lunch or dinner with Cinderella and her royal friends.

4. Stay in a Royal Guest Room at Disney’s Port Orleans ResortRiverside
Marvel at the magical details in one of the Royal Guest Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort. Artwork, banners, crowns, and fiber-optic headboard effects that create a magical “fireworks” display and special mementos left behind by Disney princesses are some of the many unique touches in this unique hotel rooms. Read more…

5. Get Magical Makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Walk in to the Cinderella castle and with a wave of a magic wand your little princess can become a princess herself at the Bibbido Bobbidi Boutique in the Magic Kingdom Park. Girls ages 3-12 can select their hairstyle, make-up, nail color, accessories and a Disney princess costume in this enchanted beauty salon. The little princes in your family can join in on the fun and become transformed into heroic knights.

6.Have Your Fairy Tale Wedding at Walt Disney World
It’s hard to deny the magic and romance that abounds Walt Disney World, a world filled with beautiful gardens, stunning beach venues, balmy breezes and breathtaking sunsets. So let Disney Fairytale Weddings help you to make your dream day truly magical. From arriving in Cinderella’s Coach, wedding photos in front of Cinderella Castle, the options are endless. Read more…

7. ‘Wishes’ Come True Every Night at Cinderella Castle
Well before the clock strikes midnight, you can watch the nightly dazzling “Wishes” fireworks display at Magic Kingdom. The night sky plays host to a wish-granting fireworks spectacular synchronized to an unforgettable musical score. Brilliant colors wash over Cinderella Castle as bursts of light and pyrotechnic effects take center stage high above the castle.

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/7-cinderella-inspired-things-to-do-during-your-next-walt-disney-world-stay/feed/0Vault of Souls revealed as personalized Halloween experience, bringing boutique haunt to Tampa for full evenings of terrorhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/vault-of-souls-revealed-as-personalized-halloween-experience-bringing-boutique-haunt-to-tampa-for-full-evenings-of-terror/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/vault-of-souls-revealed-as-personalized-halloween-experience-bringing-boutique-haunt-to-tampa-for-full-evenings-of-terror/#commentsWed, 25 Mar 2015 15:08:46 +0000Ricky Brigantehttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=headlines&p=57273In October 2015, The Vault of Souls will open in downtown Tampa, Florida for adult guests craving a more complete Halloween experience.

Far removed from quick haunted house walkthroughs, The Vault of Souls aims to consume an entire evening with eerie entertainment. With ticket prices starting at $100, there’s no doubt this will be a “boutique” experience, aimed at a niche audience looking for more than startle scares.

Guests 18 and up will find themselves in the Exchange National Bank in a paranormal story that begins in a bar, where they will mingle in the original marble lobby of the bank. Naturally, those 21 and up will be able to enjoy a few alcoholic drinks within.

From there, small groups will descend into the subterranean vault, masked and instructed not to speak, where they will wander freely through catacombs filled with interactive scenes, encountering characters throughout. It will be a non-linear, personalized experience in which guests will find hidden messages, subplots, and perhaps even their own name weaved into the story.

Though we previously reported The Vault of Souls would be an Escape Room, Swenson assures us it is much more than that type of an experience. The experience can actually be likened more to a haunted version of New York’s popular immersive theater performance Sleep No More.

After much time spent discovering the horrors that lie within, guests will find themselves in a second bar, a ’20s speakeasy style establishment where they can have a post-show drink, get a reading from local psychics, and discuss what they’ve just experienced.

“This is the most immersive and personalized haunt experience I have ever developed.” says Scott Swenson, Creative Director. “We were able to take historic elements of the raucous roaring 20s and envelop them in wicked paranormal fiction to create a story that just might be true. I must admit that I’m no longer sure which elements actually happened and which were created for the event. It just all seems so real.”

Today’s best technologies along with actors and other performers will create a convincing paranormal universe.

]]>http://www.insidethemagic.net/headlines/vault-of-souls-revealed-as-personalized-halloween-experience-bringing-boutique-haunt-to-tampa-for-full-evenings-of-terror/feed/1VIDEO: Tom Hanks recreates his film history including “Toy Story,” “Saving Mr. Banks” on The Late Late Show with James Cordenhttp://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/video-tom-hanks-recreates-his-film-history-including-toy-story-saving-mr-banks-on-the-late-late-show-with-james-corden/
http://www.insidethemagic.net/videos/video-tom-hanks-recreates-his-film-history-including-toy-story-saving-mr-banks-on-the-late-late-show-with-james-corden/#commentsWed, 25 Mar 2015 14:15:37 +0000Ricky Brigantehttp://www.insidethemagic.net/?post_type=videos&p=57314The inimitable Tom Hanks guest starred on the first night of The Late Late Show with James Corden, kicking it off with a high-energy, funny recreation of his most popular movies.

Hanks briefly brought back his Walt Disney from “Saving Mr. Banks” as well as played Woody – without the help of any computer animation: